OLD TOWN--Richard Blanchard, 80, passed peacefully on April 29, 2018, after a long and courageous struggle with pancreatic cancer. Dick was born in Old Town, on May 13, 1937 to Leona (Parady) and Desiree’ Blanchard. He lived all his life in Old Town and was a graduate of Old Town High School.
Dick had been married to Nancy Cloutier Blanchard for 57 years. Dick owned and operated Blanchard Fuels in Old Town for many years. He then spent many years working for Victor Manufacturing and FW Webb in sales. Dick served 12 years as Penobscot County Commissioner and 2 terms as a representative in Maine State Government.
Dick and Nancy raised 5 children and enjoyed 9 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter. He was happiest spending time with his family at camp on Cold Stream Pond. The door was always open for friends and family and he was known as a great host. His favorite holiday was July 4th, where he could always be counted on for an excellent fire works display on the lake.
Dick was an avid hunter and fisherman, regaling many with stories of “the one that got away”. He was well known for his cooking skills and mixing the perfect cocktail. Dick was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus and many years a member of the Old Town Elks Club. He held many offices in these organizations, but the most important aspect were the friends he made through these clubs. Dick is survived by his wife, Nancy, his five children, Wendy Coyne of Bradley, Brian Blanchard of Old Town, Betsy and Marty Clark of Old Town, Melon Lane of Old Town, and Kevin and Lori Blanchard of North Pole Alaska. In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren, Alyssa, Dillon and Denise, Casey, Logan, Evan, Paisley, Gabrielle, Kole and Jacob, as well as a great granddaughter, Lucy. He is also survived by special cousins, Donna and George Thomas, sister and brother in law, Marie and Tommy Richards and Mark Cloutier. Dick leaves many special friends and relatives behind. He was predeceased by his parents and an infant grand daughter, Abby.
Friends may call 5-8PM Tuesday at Birmingham Funeral Home 438 Main St. Old Town, where members of the Knight of Columbus will recite prayers at 7:30pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10AM Wednesday at Parish of the Resurrection, Holy Family Church, Old Town. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Old Town Public Library 46 Middle Street Old Town, ME 04468
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